Preparing For Your Photo Session

How to Get Ready for Your Session (Without Overthinking It)

Hello Friends! We may or may not have met yet but if we’ve got a shoot booked—whether it’s an engagement, adventure session, or just something fun—I’m so excited to create something real and beautiful with you. This time is about celebrating your story, your energy, and your connection. We’re not aiming for perfect—we’re aiming for you.

You’ll get a full prep guide when we work together, but here’s a sneak peek and guide of what I will share to help you show up confident and comfortable for your session!

Be Comfortable, Be You

The biggest tip? Wear what feels like you. If you feel good, you’ll look good—it’s really that simple. Think textures that move, colors that complement each other, and pieces that fit the vibe of the location. You don’t have to match perfectly—coordination beats matching any day. Flowy dresses are always a yes, and honestly, jeans and a white button-up can go a long way too.

Props Are Welcome

But not required, however if you’re the type that wants to add a personal twist to your session—let’s go for it. Think picnic setups, vintage cameras, ultrasounds, matching jackets, or even a shared hobby like swimming with pool noodles or even horses! If it’s something that reflects this season of your life or makes you both light up, I highly encourage it and I’m all in. Don’t be shy about asking if something will work—I’ll help you figure out how to work it in naturally.

For this maternity session my couple were up for hanging baby clothes that's waiting to be worn soon. This beautiful field of lupines located in Puyallup was the perfect setting for this day!

Pack the Essentials

We never know what the day might bring, so bring extras just in case—layers, snacks, water, maybe a little tequila for the nerves (I don’t judge). Comfort is key. You’ll want to feel good physically and emotionally so you can enjoy the experience without distractions and that means preparing before, during, and after! And if you want to bring props or something meaningful to you two to incorporate? Let's do it! These two decided Dick's was the way to go to fight the mid-night munchies, it was fun to just let loose and be playful without any rules!

Weather? We Roll With It

Living and shooting in the PNW means we sometimes play a guessing game with the weather. And this is something we need to keep into consideration. But clouds? Dreamy. A little wind? Beautiful movement. If it pours, we’ll talk about our options or pivot to something else if needed—but trust me, I’m down for a little chaos if you are. I'll even have cute clear umbrellas for you if we need them.

We knew it was raining, we these two definitely embraced and had so much fun in it. Think Notebook vibes but a little more urban for their engagement session.

Expect to Have a Good Time

Let go of the pressure. You don’t need to know how to pose or model—I’ll guide you through it all. My goal is to make you feel like you’re just hanging out with your person. Just come with an open mind and open heart, be willing to let go and enjoy the moment. We’ll laugh, move, chat, and by the time the session’s over, you’ll probably forget the camera was even there.

Going the Extra Mile

If you want to get a little glammed up, I can recommend folks for that. Sometimes it can really pull together the concept of a shoot if you really want detailed story telling. If you’re more casual, that’s perfect too. This is about you, your story, and what matters most to you right now. It's also not always about appearance, it could be the champagne sprays, motorcycles, a box full of favorite books, or just good conversation—bring what feels authentic and it will show.

When we shoot together, I promise it’ll be fun, low pressure, and intentional. You’ll get the full guide once we’re booked, but hopefully this gives you a taste of what to expect. I can’t wait to hang out and make something meaningful together.

xo, Selena

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Thinking of booking or just want to chat about an idea? Contact me here and let’s dream it up.